Which Should You Buy: Orlistat or Xenical?
Dizziness Risk: Orlistat vs Xenical
Can orlistat cause dizziness? Both orlistat 120mg and Xenical 120mg contain the same active ingredient and have identical side effect profiles. Dizziness is not listed as a common side effect because orlistat works locally in the gut, blocking approximately one third of dietary fat absorption rather than acting systemically through the bloodstream. Most side effects are gastrointestinal and related to unabsorbed fat passing through the digestive system.
Clinical Comparison: Identical Effects
Generic orlistat 120mg and branded Xenical 120mg are clinically equivalent. Both inhibit lipase enzymes in exactly the same way, blocking the same proportion of dietary fat. The capsules contain identical amounts of the same active ingredient, meaning you can expect the same clinical effect regardless of which option you choose following your prescriber's assessment.
Price Comparison: Substantial Savings
The main difference between orlistat and Xenical is cost. Generic orlistat 120mg costs £32.99 for 84 capsules (£29.69 with EDM10), whilst Xenical costs £42.99 (£38.69 with EDM10). Over 12 weeks, you save £33 by choosing generic orlistat - £95.99 vs £128.99 before discount. Both require the same online clinical assessment and deliver identical weight management support alongside your reduced-calorie, lower-fat diet.
Lower-Strength Alternative: Alli 60mg
For those preferring a gentler starting option, Alli 60mg contains half the dose of prescription-strength orlistat. At £54.99 for 8 weeks (£49.49 with EDM10), Alli may cause milder gastrointestinal side effects but blocks a smaller proportion of dietary fat. Your prescriber can help determine whether 60mg or 120mg strength is most appropriate for your weight management goals.
Our Recommendation Process
Following your online clinical assessment, our UK-licensed prescribers will recommend the most suitable option based on your individual circumstances and preferences. Some patients prefer branded Xenical, whilst others choose generic orlistat for value. Both are dispensed by our GPhC-registered Leicester pharmacy with the same next day delivery service and 10% discount using code EDM10.
